Government trials 'noise cameras' to catch drivers with excessively loud vehicles

New cameras fitted with noise detection systems are set to help tackle nuisance motorists with extremely loud cars or motorbikes.

The so-called ‘acoustic cameras’ will detect vehicles that exceed legal noise limits to help tackle noise pollution.

The cameras, which are being trialled, could work similarly to speed cameras - automatically detecting motorists who are breaking the law.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said the plan would help deal with the "absolute misery" caused by noise pollution.

A prototype camera commissioned by the Government will be tested at several locations over the next seven months.

If the trials are successful, it could be rolled out across the UK.

READ MORE

Man leaves rucksack full of drugs on tram - along with his name and address

Mr Grayling said: "Noise pollution makes the lives of people in communities across Britain an absolute misery and has very serious health impacts.

"This is why I am determined to crack down on the nuisance drivers who blight our streets.

"New technology will help us lead the way in making our towns and cities quieter, and I look forward to seeing how these exciting new cameras could work."

Motorcycle Industry Association CEO Tony Campbell said: "With growing pressure on the environment, including noise pollution, illegal exhausts fitted by some riders attract unwanted attention to the motorcycle community and do nothing to promote the many benefits motorcycles can offer.

"All manufacturers produce new motorcycles that follow strict regulations regarding noise and emissions and we welcome these trials as a potential way of detecting excessive noise in our community."